Turnovers forced by the Tiger defense were key in a comeback win against rival Emporia State on Thursday night (Sept. 1) in the season opener at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays. Emporia State led 17-7 midway through the third quarter, but the Tigers scored 20 unanswered points to post a win in Chris Brown's coaching debut.

Emporia State punched in its first drive for a touchdown in the second half with 8:13 remaining in the third quarter. The Tigers quickly responded with an 80-yard touchdown drive, using a pair of big-gain passes from Blake McAhren to Keaton Callins. The second was a 26-yard strike with Callins leaping above the defensive back to make the catch in the endzone for a touchdown, pulling the Tigers back within three.

The next ESU drive stalled out on the FHSU 32-yardline with Alex Whitehill dropping a receiver short of a first down, giving the Tigers the ball back with the momentum. It was one of Whitehill's team-leading 15 tackles on the evening. They seized the opportunity with a 20-yard field goal from Tyler Kimbrough with 12:48 remaining in the game to knot the score at 17-17.

Senior safety Korey Allison would be the difference maker for the Tigers in the clutch. He forced a fumble from Adrian Abner at the ESU 47-yardline and recovered it to set up the Tigers' go-ahead scoring drive. Kimbrough booted the seventh-longest field goal in FHSU history from 49 yards to put the Tigers up 20-17.

Emporia State was stopped again near midfield after A.J. Woodall forced a fumble recovered by Whitehill. It allowed FHSU to take more time off the clock and Ethan Kosjer pinned the Hornets deep with a pooch kick.

Allison came up with the biggest play of the night, intercepting Tyler Eckenrode at the FHSU 43-yardline and returned the ball 55 yards all the way to the ESU 2-yardline. That set up a 3-yard touchdown run by Edward Smith to put the game away.Sherod Murdock blocked a short ESU field goal attempt late to leave no doubt.

The rushing duo of Edward Smith and Andre Smith stepped up late to produce 103 second half rushing yards. The duo carried the ball 27 times in the second half. Edward Smith finished with 97 yards to go with his touchdown and Andre Smithhad 92 yards, helping the Tigers to 197 total yards on the ground.

Blake McAhren had an efficient game at quarterback, completing 19-of-30 passes for 215 yards and two touchdowns. Along with his touchdown to Callins, he connected with Anthony Smith in the second quarter from 13 yards out.

The Tigers moved to 1-0 overall and 1-0 in the MIAA with the win. They travel to Truman in Kirksville, Mo., next Saturday (Sept. 10) for their first road contest in the conference.

The Fort Hays State football team played their first road game of the season on Saturday afternoon (Sept. 10) at Truman in Kirksville, Mo. The Tigers outgained the Bulldogs by nearly 100 yards, and had nearly three times as many rushing yards, but miscues by FHSU proved costly as Truman downed the Tigers 36-31.

Fort Hays State got the ball to begin the game, but a quick three-and-out forced the Tigers to punt, and the Bulldogs' Anthony Brown was able to get to the Ethan Kosjer punt and block it, setting up Truman with the ball at the FHSU 19 yard line. Truman would quickly capitalize, scoring on their third play from scrimmage on an 18-yard pass from J.B. Clark to Paul Taylor giving them an early 7-0 lead with 11:32 to play in the first quarter.

FHSU would start their next drive at the Truman 12 yard line, but needed just seven plays to cash in on a 14-yard touchdown run by Shaun Ohlde. Ohlde's TD run was setup thanks to a 42-yard run by Andre Smith that moved the Tigers down to the Truman 22.

Faced with their first long field, Truman managed to move the ball back into scoring position on their second drive, capitalizing with a 42-yard field goal from Derek Koon to put the Bulldogs back on top at 10-7 with 6:09 to play in the first quarter. The Bulldogs would then force another FHSU punt without allowing a first down and they would begin their next drive at their own 36 yard line. The Bulldogs would again get into scoring range, but the Tigers held them out of the end zone and forced another Koon field goal, this one from 37 yards, making the score 13-7 in favor of Truman.

Anthony Sheppard saw his first action at quarterback as a Tiger on the next drive, but he was unable to generate any offense, as FHSU would once again punt without gaining a first down. This time, the Tiger defense was unable to keep the Bulldogs out of the end zone, with Truman capping off a 14-play, 69-yard drive with a 4-yard touchdown pass from Clark to Dallas Grier which put the Bulldogs on top 20-7 early in the second quarter.

The Fort Hays State offense finally began to find a groove on their next drive, driving the ball 62 yards in nine plays before Sheppard was intercepted by Kyle Whitcher of the Bulldogs in the end zone. The Tiger defense held strong, forcing Truman to punt three plays later and put the ball back in the hands of Sheppard and the offense. Andre Smith caught a pass from Sheppard on third and seven which he took for a first down all the way to the Truman 27 which set up a 27-yard touchdown run by Edward Smith on the very next play which cut the lead to 20-14 with 4:38 to play in the half.

The teams would trade three-and-outs on their next drive, with Truman taking over again at their own 18 yard line with 1:42 to play in the half. Clark was intercepted on the second play of the drive by FHSU defensive back Kedron Paul which set the Tigers up with the ball at the Truman 35. It would not take long for the offense to convert, with Anthony Smith catching a 12-yard touchdown pass from Blake McAhren with 19 seconds remaining in the first half. The extra point from Tyler Kimbroughgave the Tigers a 21-20 lead heading into the intermission.

Both teams' offenses came out of the break slowly, with the first two drives of the second half by both teams lasting no more than six plays. The Bulldogs returned a 42-yard punt by Kosjer 58 yards to the FHSU 19, setting up a 20-yard Koon field goal to put the Bulldogs back in front 23-21. Fort Hays State then put together one of their longest drives of the day, going 46 yards in 10 plays to set up a 27-yard Kimbrough field goal to retake the lead at 24-23. The key play on the drive was a pass from Kosjer to Andre Smith on a 4th and 11 fake punt which gained 22 yards and moved the Tigers to the Truman 34.

After the Tiger defense forced another three-and-out, the offense would strike quickly. Facing 2nd and 17 at their own 17,Andre Smith busted off an 83-yard touchdown run which gave FHSU a 31-23 lead with just 18 seconds remaining in the third quarter.

Truman's offense responded quickly with a short field, driving 48 yards in five plays and scoring on a 27-yard Clark pass to Anthony Brown. The Bulldogs went for two to try and tie the game, but the attempt was unsuccessful, leaving FHSU with a 31-29 lead with 13:33 to play in the game. When the Tigers needed to be able to run some clock, they were unable to, as they were forced to punt on their next drive without gaining a first down.

Truman's offense once again came through, with Clark going 4-for-5 on the next drive before rushing the ball in for a 1-yard touchdown run with 9:28 to play, giving the Bulldogs a 36-31 lead. Fort Hays State took over at their 22-yard line to start the next drive and managed to get into Truman territory before the drive stalled out. The Tigers failed to convert a 4th and 5 pass from McAhren to Nelson Vasquez, giving the Bulldogs the ball with the lead and 5:01 to play.

The Fort Hays State defense once again came through; forcing a quick Bulldog punt. However, the return was fumbled byAndre Smith and recovered by Matthew Bell of Truman. The Bulldogs got the ball at the FHSU 37 with 3:07 to play. After gaining a pair of first downs, Truman was able to run out the clock and take the victory 36-31.

The loss spoiled great individual efforts from Andre Smith, who gained 203 yards on the ground in just his second game as a Tiger, and Alex Whitehill, who had a career-high 19 tackles in the losing effort.

Fort Hays State drops to 1-1 overall and in the MIAA following the loss, while Truman improves to 1-1 with their win. FHSU will be at home next Saturday (Sept. 17) to face Southwest Baptist for the annual Tailgreat event.

2008 Grad Terrance Alston DB

Utah State: Senior cornerback Terrence Alston had a monster start to his final collegiate season, as he led the team with five solo tackles and a sack against SUU. Fellow senior McKade Brady was right behind him with three tackles of his own. The entire group allowed just 153 yards through the air from a total of just 12 completions. The Aggies’ secondary will be eager to pounce on Wynn early after watching his opening drive against Northern Colorado.

Another former Viking, Terrance Alston, had a solid game in Utah State’s 34-3 win over Southern Utah State, leading the Aggies with five solo tackles, including a sack for a 10-yard loss.

2009 Grad Chad Hurst QB

November 22, 2012

Garcia Named SCIAC Defensive Player of the Year as Redlands Football Collects 13 All-SCIAC Awards

The Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) announced on Wednesday afternoon that the University of Redlands football program garnered 13 All-SCIAC selections, headlined by senior linebackerJordan Garcia (Carlsbad, CA) as the 2012 Defensive Player of the Year.

After landing on the First Team for his defensive efforts in each of the past two seasons, Garcia capped off a spectacular career with the Bulldogs with his Defensive Player of the Year recognition. While leading the team in total tackles (64) and tackles-for-loss (6), he also notched one interception and recovered two fumbles during the team's seven conference games. A captain of the team and the general of the Maroon and Gray defense, Garcia recorded 1.5 sacks and tallied three pass break-ups against SCIAC receivers.

Locke ranked third on the team with 40 tackles during seven SCIAC contests, including 4.5 tackles-for-loss. He also notched two sacks and three quarterback-hurries during the 2012 conference campaign.

Payton racked up 38 total tackles in games against SCIAC foes, ranking fourth on the team in this category. He also notched one tackle-for-loss and nabbed two interceptions, including one for a pick-six play.

Kane earned his first-ever All-Conference honor after totaling 28 tackles in SCIAC competition, including one sack and two tackles-for-loss.

Alman notched 24 total tackles, 14 of which were solo, against conference foes. He also recorded two sacks and 3.5 tackles-for-loss during the seven-game SCIAC schedule.

Morris, part of the spectacular secondary for the Bulldogs, was consistently a threat to opposing team's quarterbacks as he led the U of R with six interceptions, including one that he returned for the touchdown. Moreover, Morris totaled 28 tackles, highlighted by 17 solo hits, while facing conference foes.

Hurst collects his second-consecutive All-SCIAC award, earning his inaugural First-Team honor in his second year as the Bulldogs' starter. The catalyst for the Redlands offense, Hurst led the team to an impressive scoring output of 47.1 points per SCIAC contest. Through the air, he completed 51% of his passes for 1,467 yards and 16 touchdowns in seven games. Always a dual threat from the quarterback position, Hurst also rushed for 226 yards, scoring three times via the ground game against conference foes.

Kinney, also a two-time All-SCIAC recipient, garners his inaugural First-Team accolade of his four-year career at Redlands. Integral in the Bulldogs' running game, he helped the squad to accumulate 1,940 yards from the line of scrimmage, averaging out to 277.1 yards per conference game. Kinney was also key to the Maroon and Gray's league-leading 21 touchdowns during SCIAC competition. Highly effective at keeping the opposing defenses at-bay, Kinney contributed to the offensive line that allowed a mere two sacks in conference play, marking the lowest total among the members.

While tallying his second-straight First-Team All-SCIAC accolade, Grady led the conference kickers in scoring during the 2012 campaign, averaging 10.4 points per game for a total of 73 points in SCIAC competition. As the Bulldogs' overall leading scoring, he connected on 14 field goals, including a long of 45 yards, to go along with 31 successful point-after-tries against conference foes. On top of his offensive efforts, he provided 59 kick-offs en route to 3,542 yards for an average of 60.0 yards, highlighted by 20 touchbacks.

Crisanty garners Second-Team laurels for the third-consecutive year with Redlands. As the team's feature running back, he averaged a remarkable 6.6 yards per carry while accumulating a team-leading 996 yards from the line of scrimmage in seven conference games. On top of his 142.3 yards per SCIAC game, he found the endzone on nine occasions. Showing his versatility, Crisanty also served as one of the kick-off return men for the Maroon and Gray, averaging 36 yards per return and taking one to the house for 93 yards.

Irwin garners his second-ever All-SCIAC award, collecting his inaugural Second-Team honor in his third season with the Bulldogs. During seven conference games, he led the squad in receptions with 35 en route to 400 total receiving yards. Catching two touchdowns, Irwin averaged 57.1 total receiving yards per SCIAC contest and 11.4 yards per catch. Additionally, he acted as a spark out of the backfield, carrying the ball seven times for 45 yards, notching a team-best 15 yards per carry.

In his first year with the Redlands football program, Andersen made an immediate impact on the offense. Snagging 14 receptions, he averaged 21.5 yards per catch, totaling 301 yards on the conference campaign. Andersen also caught the first three touchdowns of his football career, ranking third on the team in the process.

Earning his inaugural All-SCIAC honor, Wood was a key piece to the successful Redlands running game. Helping the squad to average 277.1 yards per game on the ground for a total 1,940 yards, he saw Redlands running backs score a league-leading 21 touchdowns. Talented at protecting the Bulldog quarterbacks, Wood was a key piece of the offensive line that allowed just two sacks during conference play, marking the lowest total in the SCIAC.

The Bulldogs put together a solid 6-3 season while finishing in second place in the SCIAC with a 6-1 record.

After honoring its class of 20 seniors in a pregame ceremony, the University of Redlands football team continued the celebration with a 41-0 drubbing of the Stags of Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Colleges in the Maroon and Gray's final home game of the regular season. With the win, the Bulldogs remain in a tie for second place with Chapman University in the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) standings

The Bulldogs made their presence immediately known by forcing a Stag fumble on the opening drive of the game. Six plays later, Redlands notched its first of five touchdowns on the night when senior quarterback Chad Hurst(Dixon, CA) hit junior wide receiver Daryl Andersen (Grand Terrace, CA) in the end zone for a 10-yard score.

While racking up 436 yards of offense to go along with 25 first downs, the Maroon and Gray never looked back en route to the dominating victory. In addition, the Bulldogs allowed CMS to earn only one red-zone chance, which was halted without a score.

Redlands benefitted from a diversified offense with five different players registering points. Hurst connected with senior wide receiver Mark Richardson II (Los Angeles, CA) on a 13-yard strike into the far corner of the Stag end zone before hitting senior wide receiver Peter Adams (Laguna Niguel, CA) on a 35-yard reception to the promise land.

In addition, junior kicker Kevin Grady (Seattle, WA) split the uprights on a 32-yard field goal and later punched in a 25-yarder for the 34-point halftime lead. Hurst capped off the offensive explosion with a five-yard carry to wrap up a four-play, 64-yard drive early in the third quarter.

Beyond this, Redlands benefitted from big plays by the defense, highlighted by senior defensive back Brandon Morris' (Mission Viejo, CA) sixth interception of the season. He ran it back 35 yards for the pick-six play midway through the second quarter.

By the end of the game, senior running back Brad Crisanty (Granite Bay, CA) had posted his fifth straight showing with at least 100 rushing yards, with tonight's performance resulting in 132 on 17 carries. He currently sits 144 yards away from eclipsing the 1000-yard mark for the season.

Crisanty headed up a strong run game by the Bulldogs that racked up 288 yards with eight different ball carriers.

Late in the game, the Bulldogs utilized nearly everyone on the roster, including a multi-faceted defensive crew that came up big on fourth-and-two on their own 14-yard line to halt the Stags' drive and preserve the shutout.

Overall, senior defensive back Zak Mella (Yucaipa, CA) led the defense with 13 total tackles on the night, including six solo hits and two for a loss. Freshman linebacker Bentley Tran (Olympia, WA) and sophomore linebacker Griffin Lord (Upland, CA) stepped up their contributions as well, making six stops apiece.

As a unit, the Maroon and Gray recorded seven tackles for a loss of 29, highlighted by three sacks. Those came from the persistent efforts of senior linebacker Jordan Garcia (Carlsbad, CA), sophomore defensive linemanJordan Bixler (Redlands, CA), and senior linebacker Greyson Alman(Fontana, CA).

Redlands (4-3, 4-1 SCIAC) heads to Pomona-Pitzer Colleges on Saturday for a 1 p.m. kickoff against the Sagehens.

With big plays on all areas of the field, the University of Redlands football team unleashed a 49-7 thrashing during its Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) opener against the visiting Tigers of Occidental College on Saturday in Ted Runner Stadium. Amidst "Take a Kid to the Game Night" and "Coach to Cure M.D.," the Bulldogs gave their fans plenty to remember as they came alive with awesome execution en route to the sixth-highest offensive output in the history of the program.

With senior quarterback Chad Hurst (Dixon, CA) back in the lineup after a week hiatus, the Maroon and Gray quickly found its rhythm on an efficient five-play, 88-yard drive to the promise land on its opening possession. After finding junior wide receiver Taylor Irwin (Rocklin, CA) and junior tight endDaryl Andersen (Grand Terrace, CA) on consecutive plays, Hurst connected with senior wide receiverPeter Adams (Laguna Niguel, CA) for 36 yards into the Tiger end zone. It was a sign of things to come, as Adams played a key part in the Bulldogs' 630 yards of offense by amassing the third-most receiving yards in single-game history with 221.

After the Bulldog defense forced the opponents to punt on fourth-and-10, Redlands continued to charge, orchestrating a rush-dominant series for a 14-0 lead. Irwin tallied 24 yards on the ground, only to be surpassed by Hurst with his 30-yard scoring carry.

Occidental's ensuing drive moved the ball all the way to the Redlands 35-yard line but senior defensive back Brandon Morris (Mission Viejo, CA) halted the Tigers' efforts with his first of two interceptions on the night. The Bulldogs converted this opportunity into a 34-yard field goal by juniorKevin Grady (Seattle, WA), making it 17-0 at the start of the second quarter.

After Grady split the uprights on a 43-yard field goal, Occidental was on the move from its own 22-yard line to the Bulldogs' 34. But Morris once again changed the Tigers' plans by hauling in his second interception and running it back 31 yards for a huge play.

Up 27-0, Redlands clearly owned the momentum, as shown by senior defensive back Carter Hersey's (Tacoma, WA) safety upon a bad snap during a Tiger punt attempt with five minutes left in the second quarter.

Minutes later, senior linebacker Justin Butler (Poway, CA) nabbed an Oxy pass for the Bulldogs' third interception of the night, which came at just the right time as the opponents were knocking on the door at the Maroon and Gray four-yard line.

With seconds to go in the first half, Hurst launched a surprise air attack with an 80-yard bomb to Adams for the touchdown.

During the third quarter, Redlands continued to move the ball well while stymieing any Tiger opportunities. Crisanty carried the ball 23 yards to the house and Hurst found junior quarterback-turned-wide-receiver Daniel Davis (Seattle, WA) on a seven-yard strike to complete the offensive onslaught.

Occidental avoided the shut-out with a 16-play, 93-yard drive early in the fourth quarter, as junior quarterback Tommy Edwards (Sherman Oaks, CA) forced his way through the Bulldog line for a one-yard scoring carry.

Offensively, Adams uncorked a career-game with 221 yards on 10 catches for two touchdowns, placing him in the Bulldog record book with the third-most receiving yards for a single game.

Hurst went 20-for-35 for a total of 352 yards as the team's starter, while Crisanty served as the Bulldogs' top ball-carrier, racking up 116 yards on 15 attempts.

University of Redlands' Hurst waited for his turn and enjoyed stellar season

REDLANDS - Few debuts are as dramatic as the one University of Redlands quarterback Chad Hurst made last year. After two seasons as Dan Selway's understudy the starting job was his and his first test was against then-No. 4 North Central (Ill.)

What a memorable debut it was. The Northern California native threw for 275 yards and scored on a 5-yard run with 28 seconds remaining to give the Bulldogs a 35-29 win.

Bulldogs coach Mike Maynard wasn't that surprised because he knew Hurst was ready for the challenge.

"He was the guy that waited his turn and did everything he could to be ready when his time came," Maynard said. "He was on the sideline right next to Danny, going over defenses, talking about the offense.

"He was the first guy here and the last to leave. Because of that, it was easy for the other guys to have confidence in him and rally behind him."

In true perfectionist fashion, Hurst's recollection of that game was more about what he did wrong than right.

"I threw three interceptions," he said sheepishly. "I have to do better than that."

Seldom does the first game end up being the pivotal game of the season but that proved to be the case. Beating such a highly ranked team gave the Bulldogs (8-2) the strength of schedule they needed to advance to the playoffs as an at-large qualifier, something that had not happened in the history of the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.

Redlands, which finished runner-up to Cal Lutheran in the SCIAC, traveled to Texas for a playoff game it lost to Mary Hardin-Baylor.

The Bulldogs open the new season with a rematch against North Central on Saturday, but this time they will be on the road. Hurst knows the Cardinals, who ran the table in the regular season after that loss to Redlands last year, will be ready.

"I'm sure they're going to want to get us back badly," he said. "We're going to have to be up for the challenge, especially being on the road this time. They're going to be ready for us."

Hurst, a 6-foot-2, 210-pounder, was third in the SCIAC in passing yardage with 2,151 yards (215 per-game average). He passed for 19 touchdowns and had 11 interceptions.

The thing that makes him such a formidable weapon is his scrambling ability. He had a team-high 705 yards rushing for an average of 70.5 yards a game that ranked fifth in the SCIAC.

He had 109 yards in 20 carries in a game against Cal Lutheran, which the Bulldogs led 24-0 at the half, only to lose 27-24 on a Kingsmen touchdown with 16 seconds left.

His high of 138 yards with four touchdowns came against Whittier. He threw for 213 yards in the game.

Hurst's predecessor also was a scrambling quarterback his first few years but multiple injuries resulted in Maynard being more conservative when it came to letting Selway run later in his career. The veteran coach isn't worried about having to do the same with Hurst.

"He's more durable just because he hasn't taken the hits and had to recover from so many injuries the way Danny did," Maynard said. "He (Hurst) is such a weapon there we would hate to take that away."

Hurst, 21, is glad.

"I love running the ball," he said. "I don't mind getting hit. I think I'm pretty tough and I can take it."

Hurst knew he had a tough act to follow in Selway, who played parts of six seasons. Now in his second full year he feels like he has forged his own identity.

"I learned a lot from Dan but I have tried to make it my own team, step out of his shadow," Hurst said. "I'm not the first guy to have to do that. No one had bigger shoes to follow than Aaron Rodgers, coming after Brett Favre."

Last year may have been Hurst's first as a starter but Maynard saw his maturity long before he was handed the reins of the offense.

The Bulldogs were prepping for their season finale against Chapman in Hurst's sophomore year and Selway had sustained a broken wrist. Hurst had taken most of the snaps in practice so Maynard wanted to start him.

He called both into his office to let them know who would get the call. Hurst's reaction surprised him.

"He said, `I think I can do the job but it's Dan's senior year and his last game. I really think he should start,' " Maynard recalled. "That really told me a lot about the kid's character. Here he had paid his dues and waited and was going to get his chance and was still willing to give that up for his teammate."

It was announced on Monday that the University of Redlands football program landed at No. 18 on the D3football.com Preseason Top-25 Poll. The Bulldogs received 162 total votes after finishing the 2011 season with an 8-2 overall record to go along with a season-ending ranking of No. 20.

The U of R joins Cal Lutheran University as the only other Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) school represented on the preseason list.

Redlands comes off one of its finer seasons in the program's history when it earned an at-large berth to the 2011 NCAA Division III Football Championships for its sixth postseason appearance.

After pulling off the shocking 35-29 upset victory over the No. 4 Cardinals of North Central College (IL) in last year's home opener, the Bulldogs went on to win seven of their next eight games, including a dramatic victory over Claremont-Mudd-Scripps Colleges on a "Hail Mary" play.

Redlands returns numerous playmakers, including Second-Team All-SCIAC senior quarterback Chad Hurst (Dixon, CA). Fellow Second-Team All-SCIAC senior Brad Crisanty (Granite Bay, CA) also returns as the Bulldogs' top running back for the potent Redlands' offense. On the defensive side of the ball, First-Team All-SCIAC senior linebacker Jordan Garcia (Carlsbad, CA) looks to be a force once again this season after leading the team with 87 tackles, including 54 solo hits.

The Bulldogs open their 2012 campaign by traveling to Naperville, IL, on September 8 to take on the North Central College Cardinals in a rematch of last year's season opener. The squad returns home for Rah Rah Redlands on September 15 against Pacific Lutheran University (WA).

The University of Redlands football team made history tonight by upsetting the visiting Cardinals of North Central College (IL) in Saturday's early season opener at Ted Runner Stadium. With a preseason ranking of No. 4 by D3football.com, the highly touted opponent from Illinois gave Bulldog Head Coach Mike Maynard what he classified as the biggest game of his tenure, according to a recent newspaper article. Despite facing a 13-point deficit, the Maroon and Gray rallied back to capture a 35-29 victory over the Cardinals in front of an electric "Rah Rah Redlands" crowd of more than 2,100.

In addition to this exciting achievement, the program also broadcast the game live over the Internet for the first time in school history.

After a slow start that resulted in 13 straight points for North Central, the Bulldog offense finally responded with a nine-play, 97-yard drive downfield that culminated in an 11-yard dance into the end zone by senior wide receiver Mark Richardson II (Los Angeles, CA). Sophomore kicker Kevin Grady (Seattle, WA) notched his first of five point-after tries of the night.

Utilizing a two-headed quarterback system, the Cardinals answered with a touchdown on their subsequent drive, making it a 19-7 ball game.

Refusing to give into the hype of their unfamiliar opponent, the Bulldogs returned to the field after halftime with a noticeable fervor and determination that inspired the crowd on more than one occasion. They racked up 28 of their 35 points in the final two quarters.

Redlands marched its opening possession of the second half into the promise land to cut the deficit to five. In one of its more diverse offensive series, the Bulldogs put together a 10-play, 76-yard drive that was highlighted by junior quarterback Chad Hurst's (Dixon, CA) 15-yard rush into the red zone for a first down. Although the Maroon and Gray fumbled the ball just before scoring, Redlands' senior wide receiver Taylor Chapatte (San Diego, CA) recovered it for six points.

The Maroon and Gray defense came up with big plays in its first outing of the third quarter. On fourth and one for NCC, the Bulldog stalwarts brought the fans to their feet when it found a way to deny the first down, thus shifting the momentum back in their favor.

Redlands nabbed its first lead of the game when it posted a 10-play, 59-yard drive for the touchdown late in the third quarter, making it 21-19. Highlighting this series, Hurst connected with Richardson for 19- and 16-yard strikes. Hurst eventually ran the ball in for the score from two-yards out.

The fourth quarter provided a roller-coaster experience as the teams traded blows while pouring on a total of 24 points. With 16 first downs between them, the game remained unpredictable until the final ticks of the clock.

The quarter's first score came on the heels of an eight-play, 48-yard drive by North Central, making it 26-21.

Down by five, Redlands responded with a gutsy performance by Hurst and his crew in which they recorded three completions and one rush while taking advantage of two critical Cardinal penalties. Hurst eventually found sophomore Taylor Irwin (Rocklin, CA) on a 10-yard pass into the end zone, giving Redlands a 28-26 advantage with 6:32 remaining. He also connected with Richardson for 11 yards and senior Tyler Aubrey (San Diego, CA) for 21 yards.

However, the No. 4 team in the country continued to fight back as senior quarterback Brad Crackel (Oswego, IL) led the Cardinals 62 yards for the score and the one-point lead.

Despite his seemingly lack of game experience, Hurst stepped up for the Bulldogs by guiding them downfield for one more touchdown in the final 94 seconds of the game. During this span, he went 5-for-11 in passing, including a fourth-and-10 play that landed in Irwin's capable hands for 17 yards. Redlands also benefited from a pass interference call, which put the offense at the NCC 26-yard line.

After sprinkling the yardage between four receivers, Hurst ran the ball five yards into the end zone for his second touchdown of the game, making it 35-29 with 24 seconds to go.

Again, knowing that North Central is no slouch, the Bulldog defense took care of business in the Cardinals' final attempt to win the game. Senior defensive back Josh Herrera (Vista, CA) eventually secured the Redlands win when he nabbed an interception at the Redlands 21-yard line.

Hurst impressed in his first collegiate start by racking up 275 yards on 26-for-45 passing with three interceptions.

Richardson posted a team-high 103 yards on just six receptions while Irwin added 71 yards on 10 catches.

Defensively, the Bulldogs benefited from a talented trio as Herrera, junior linebacker Justin Butler (Poway, CA) and senior linebacker Jordan Garcia (Carlsbad, CA) came up with a combined 34 tackles. Butler also returned four kickoffs for 103 yards, including a long of 33.

Overall, Redlands gained one more first down than its opponents, but the Cardinals dominated possession with nearly an 11-minute advantage.

The Bulldogs (1-0) enjoy a bye week before preparing for Northwest Conference foe Whitworth University (WA) on Sept. 17 in Spokane, WA, at 1 p.m.

September 7, 2011

Prior to Saturday's 2011 season opener against North Central College (IL), Head Coach Mike Maynard and the football coaching staff announced that senior defensive back Josh Herrera (Vista, CA) and junior quarterbackChad Hurst (Dixon, CA) join junior linebacker Jordan Garcia (Carlsbad, CA) and senior offensive linemanChris Radtke (Redlands, CA) as the captains of this year's Bulldog football team. Garcia and Radtke were chosen earlier this spring to serve in this important role.

"The 2011 team captains are team leaders with exceptional character, resilience, and resolve," stated Maynard. "They have the attribute that we need to inspire and lead our team to become the best we can be this year."

Herrera and Garcia head up the defense while Radkte and Hurst oversee the offense.

A two-time All-Conference selection, Herrera is a consistent contributor as a defensive back for the Bulldogs. Last season, he amassed 45 tackles while swiping two interceptions, which led all returning players.

Garcia served as one of four team captains for the 2010 squad and returns as the team's leading tackler. Last year, the quarterback-of-the-defense tallied 69 total tackles, 34 of which were solo hits. This All-SCIAC performer also accumulated 7.5 tackles for a loss, one interception and one break up.

Both players played an instrumental role in helping the squad to rank 10th in the nation for total defense, 10th for scoring defense and 11th for pass efficiency defense during last year's 8-1 run.

Radkte was the UR's lone First-Team All-SCIAC selection for offense in 2010. He helped the Maroon and Gray rack up nearly 3,000 yards of total offense while averaging 27.8 points per game. This Dean's List member returns for his final season as the team's starting center, providing power and leadership to the offensive line.

Stepping into the starting quarterback slot, Hurst has impressed teammates and coaches this past off-season with his ability to lead the team on offense. The play-caller served as the Bulldogs' understudy in 2010, learning the ropes behind All-American Dan Selway '10.

This past week the Bulldogs shocked the nation by pulling off one of the biggest upsets in the program's history. Behind the energy of the "Rah Rah Redlands" crowd of more than 2,100, Redlands stunned the No. 4 Cardinals of North Central College (IL) in a come-from-behind victory.

Each of the four captains made a significant impact on the game's outcome. Herrera led the team with 12 total tackles and iced the game with a pick in the waning seconds of the fourth quarter. Garcia's fierce pressure on the Cardinal offense directly corresponded to two huge tackles for a loss, thus changing the game's momentum in favor of the Maroon and Gray. Behind Radtke's pass protection and Hurst's gun-slinging arm, Redlands recorded 276 yards through the air on top of two passing touchdowns.

Redlands enjoys a bye before traveling to Spokane, Washington, for a non-conference battle against regional rival Whitworth University on Sept. 17 at 1 p.m.

September 15, 2011

It was announced earlier this week that junior quarterback Chad Hurst (Dixon, CA) of the University of Redlands was named the Southern California Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SCIAC) Male Athlete of the Week for the extended period of Sept. 1-11, 2011. He garners the first award for the 2011-12 academic year.

Hurst's recognition follows his first collegiate start on Sept. 3 when he led the Bulldogs to a 35-29 upset victory over then-No. 4 North Central College (IL) in front of an electric "Rah Rah Redlands" crowd at Ted Runner Stadium. He racked up 275 yards passing on 26 completions for two scores. He also served as the team's best rusher with 60 yards on 11 carries for two touchdowns, including the game-winner with 28 seconds left in the game.

Now ranked No. 17 by D3football.com, Redlands returns to action after a bye week to face off against regional rival Whitworth University (WA) in Saturday's non-conference contest at 1 p.m. in Spokane, WA.

PULLMAN – It’s ironic that amid a veteran-heavy Washington State receiving corps, the opening touchdown reception of the team’s first official scrimmage belonged to a freshman. But the speedy Robert Lewis was just one of several young Cougars flying around and making plays on Day 11 of spring practice.

The 5-foot-9, 160-pound receiver’s quickness was on full display during his 44-yard touchdown from quarterback Tyler Bruggman. Lewis hauled in the pass from about 10 yards away but managed to make a defender miss in the open field before turning on the jets the rest of the way.

“It was a scrimmage so I felt I had to make a few plays,” Robert Lewis said. “I’m just trying my hardest to make a few plays and earn my spot.”

Turns out Lewis was only getting warmed up, as he delivered yet another explosive scoring play later in the day. His second score came again on a connection with Bruggman, a 50-yard pass that traveled about 25 yards before landing in Lewis’ hands. Once he caught it, all the defenders could see was the back of his jersey as he raced into the end zone.

Lewis finished Saturday’s scrimmage with three catches for 101 yards.

In the 115-play scrimmage, three WSU quarterbacks combined for more than 700 passing yards with nine TDs.

But the defense racked up nine sacks – three by Emmitt Su’a-Kalio and two by Toni Pole – and held Cougar running backs to 32 combined ground hashes and 2.0 yards per carry.

Bruggman, who primarily spent the day running with the 3s on offense, completed 15 of his 28 passes for 250 yards, three touchdowns and an interception. In addition to the two plays to Lewis, the freshman hooked up with Daniel Lilienthal for an 8-yard score. His interception came on a tipped pass by defensive lineman Moritz Christthat eventually landed in the hands of linebacker Peyton Pelluer in the end zone.

Pelluer’s interception by was the first of the two turnovers he caused in the scrimmage. Three plays later, he laid a hit on running back Gerard Wicks that jarred the ball loose and he eventually recovered.

Pelluer also led the team with seven total tackles.

Luke Falk took the snaps at quarterback with the second team on Saturday. Falk finished the day 24 of 32 for 253 yards and three touchdowns. He found wide receiverTyler Baker for his first touchdown, from 18 yards out, while his second score came on a 34-yard deep ball to Lilienthal. A 15-yard pass to running back Jamal Morrowserved as his third and final score of the day.

Lilienthal joined Lewis as the only receivers to go over the 100-yard mark as the redshirt junior led the team with 114 yards and two scores.

The first-team offense was not to be outdone, though, as senior Connor Hallidaycompleted 24 of his 31 passing attempts and added three scores of his own, hooking up with wide receivers Vince Mayle and River Cracraft.

Halliday connected twice with Mayle, first from seven, then 20 yards out. The ball to Cracraft came from 13 yards away, which Cracraft did most of the leg work for. After the catch he used a few juke moves on safety Darius Lemora and cornerbackDaquawn Brown on his way to the end zone.

Mayle recorded seven catches for 89 yards and Cracraft brought in six passes for 64 yards on the day.

On defense, Beau Glover continues to play well in place of Isaac Dotson at starting safety. Glover led the team in solo tackles with six and nearly came away with an interception before Baker wrestled it away as the two went to the ground.

“Beau’s all over the place,” said defensive coordinator Mike Breske. “He’s having a great camp.”

“He doesn’t talk much but is always in the right spot, always wants to make a play,” Monroe said. “That’s one guy who I know passionately loves football more than a lot of people.”

The defensive lineups varied for the most part on Saturday, Breske said, which gave guys who typically run with the 2s and 3s to mix it up and get a feel for running with some other units.

“(The scrimmage) was pretty good, it was a lot better than last year,” Monroe said. “A lot less mistakes, the effort looks a lot better so compared to last year we’re a lot further ahead.”

Aside from the turnovers, the biggest defensive highlight of the day came from safetyDavid Bucannon. The younger brother of former All-American Deone Bucannon came flying down the middle of the field to thud Baker, preventing the receiver from holding onto the ball and causing the defensive to erupt in cheers.

In the backfield, each running back ran out with every unit with the exception ofTheron West, who strictly played with the 1s. Teondray Caldwell led the group in carries with six for 14 yards. Jamal Morrow had the only rushing touchdown of the day, a 1-yard carry on the first series of the day.

On special teams Erik Powell knocked 5 of his 7 kicks through the goal posts. The starting kicker made kicks from 24, 37, 40, 41, and 45. His attempt from 39 yards was wide left, as was his try from 42 yards.

NOTABLE NOTES: • After fully participating in practice on Thursday, wide receiver Gabe Marks showed up to the scrimmage in street clothes.

PULLMAN, Wash. – Washington State senior safety Deone Bucannon has been named the winner of the 2013 College Football Performance Awards Elite Defensive Back Trophy, as announced by the organization.

Bucannon earned the award for his career as a Cougar defensive back. Bucannon led the Pac-12 Conference with 114 tackles, the most by a Cougar since James Darling made 136 stops in 1996. The Fairfield, Calif. native also tied for the conference lead with six interceptions, most by a Cougar since Erik Coleman’s seven in 2003, and owned team-highs of three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.

He finished his career fourth in WSU history in career tackles (384), second in career solo tackles (268) and third with 15 career interceptions. He finished the season as the NCAA’s active career leader in solo tackles, tied for the lead in career interceptions and fifth in total career tackles. His 15 career interceptions are the most in Division I FBS college football.

Bucannon picked up a number of All-American honors this past season, earning First-Team All-America honors by the Associated Press, Second-Team All-America accolades by the Walter Camp Football Foundation, All-America Third Team honors by CBS Sports, All-America First Team by Athlon Sports, and Honorable Mention All-America from Sports Illustrated.

Bucannon is the first Cougar to earn CFPA postseason honors. Twenty-one CFPA winners have been first-round NFL Draft selections.

PULLMAN, Wash. – Washington State safety Deone Bucannon made three tackles in the Reese’s Senior Bowl, played last Saturday in Mobile, Ala.

Bucannon was the first Cougar to be invited to play in the game since wideout Brandon Gibson in 2009 and was the first WSU defensive player to appear in the game since Marcus Trufant in 2002. The Faifield, Calif. native was one of 110 players invited to participate in the event.

Bucannon closed out his Cougar career with one of the best seasons in WSU history after receiving a number of All-America honors . He earned First-Team All-America honors by the Associated Press, Second-Team All-America by the Walter Camp Football Foundation, All-America Third Team by CBS Sports, All-America First Team by Athlon Sports, and Honorable Mention All-America from Sports Illustrated. Bucannon became the first Cougar to earn All-American first-team honors since Jerome Harrison in 2005 and the first defensive player since defensive tackle Rien Long in 2002. He was also named a Jim Thorpe Award Semifinalist, given to the top defensive back in college football, becoming the first Cougar to be named a semifinalist since Jason David in 2003.

Bucannon, an All-Pac-12 First Team selection and three-time All-Pac-12 honoree, led the Pac-12 with 114 tackles and tied for the conference lead with six interceptions.. Bucannon made 106 tackles last season. His 114 stops this season were the most by a Cougar since James Darling made 136 stops in 1996 and gave him his second straight 100-tackle season after making 106 in 2012, the first back-to-back 100-tackle seasons since Billy Newman (1999-2000). Bucannon’s six interceptions were the most by a Cougar since Erik Coleman’s seven in 2003, and he also owned team-highs of three forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries. He was named a Midseason All-American by SportsIllustrated.com and to the Midseason All-America second team by CBSSports.com.

The 6-1, 215-pound Bucannon saw his name climb up both the NCAA and the WSU record books this season. He finished his career fourth in WSU history in career tackles (384), second in career solo tackles (268) and third in career interceptions with 15. He closed the season as the NCAA’s active career leader in solo tackles, tied for the lead in career interceptions and fifth in career total tackles. He posted four double-digit tackle games this season and 16 in his career. Bucannon also played on the kickoff and punt coverage teams this season and finished tied for second on the team with seven special teams tackles, five coming on kickoff.

The Reese’s Senior Bowl is college football's premier pre-draft event, annually featuring the nation's best senior collegiate football stars and top NFL draft prospects on teams coached by NFL coaching staffs. Senior Bowl practices and game week festivities are attended by more than 800 general managers, head coaches, assistant coaches, scouts and other front office personnel from all 32 National Football League teams.

For more information on the 2014 Reese’s Senior Bowl, please visit the bowl's website at www.seniorbowl.com.

MARCUS TRUFANT didn't do it. Neither did Erik Coleman. Or Jason David, Paul Sorensen or even legendary Bill Gaskins. Washington State senior safety Deone Bucannon officially joined the pantheon of all-time Cougar greats today when he was named first-team Associated Press All-America.

Bucannon becomes the first Cougar to earn first-team AP honors since running back Jerome Harrison in 2005 and the first WSU defensive player since tackle Rien Long in 2002.

He also becomes only the third WSU defensive back to receive top honors from AP since it started picking All-America teams in 1925. The other Cougar DBs to earn first-team AP recognition were Clancy Williams in 1965 and Lamont Thompson in 2001.

The Associated Press All-America team has long been considered the premier list in the nation.

The honor comes on the heels of Bucannon earning third-team All-America plaudits yesterday from CBS Sports, and first-team honors from Athlon Sports and second-team from the Walter Camp Foundation last week.

Bucannon, who last month became the first Cougar to earn first-team All-Pac-12 accolades since wideout Brandon Gibson in 2007 and the first WSU defensive back since safety Eric Frampton in 2006, has a sensational senior campaign at Washington State, leading the conference in tackles this season with 109.

Bucannon, who never redshirted, also was among conference leaders in interceptions, with five. In addition, he forced three fumbles, recovered two, tallied 4.5 tackles-for-loss and registered four double-digit tack

PULLMAN, Wash. – Washington State senior safety Deone Bucannon was named a Second-Team All-American by the Walter Camp Football Foundation, the organization announced Thursday. Bucannon was also named to the All-America First Team by Athlon Sports earlier in the day.

The foundation announced its 124th edition of the Walter Camp All-America team – the nation’s oldest All-America team. Twenty-six players were selected to the first team by the 125 Football Bowl Subdivision head coaches and sports information directors. In addition, 26 players were selected to the Second Team.

Bucannon becomes the first Cougar to earn All-American second-team honors since Mkristo Bruce in 2006. Wide receiver Brandon Gibson was a third team selection in 2007. Bucannon, a semifinalist for the Jim Thorpe Award given to the nation’s best defensive back, led the Pac-12 Conference with 109 tackles, tied for fourth in the conference with five interceptions and tied for team-highs with three forced fumbles and three fumble recoveries. The Fairfield, Calif. native enters the Gildan New Mexico Bowl as the NCAA’s active leader in career solo tackles, tied for second in career interceptions and fifth in career tackles. His 14 career interceptions are tied for third-most in school history while his 379 career tackles are fourth-most win WSU history.

Bucannon’s 109 stops are the most by a Cougar since James Darling recorded 136 in 1996 and follows a 106 tackle campaign in 2012, giving him the first back-to-back 100-tackle seasons since Billy Newman in 1999-2000. Bucannon recorded four double-digit tackles performances this season and owns 16 in his career. His best games this season came against the toughest opponents, making 14 stops, forcing a fumble and recovering another in the season opener at Auburn, posting eight tackles in the win at USC, tallying nine tackles and an interception against Stanford, recording nine tackles, forcing a fumble he also recovered against Oregon, making 12 stops and picking off a pass against Arizona State before tallying 11 tackles in the win at Arizona.

He was named a Midseason All-American by Sports Illustrated and to the Midseason All-America second team by CBS Sports.

Washington State safety Deone Bucannon has accepted an invitation to play in the Reese's Senior Bowl all-star game Jan. 25 in Mobile, Ala., bowl officials said Monday. Bucannon led the Pac-12 in tackles this season with 109 and picked off five passes. He last week was named first-team All-Pac-12, marking the first time a Cougar has made the top unit since Brandon Gibson in 2007. He ranks in WSU's career top 10 for tackles and interceptions.

Cougar senior safety Deone Bucannon was named first team All-Pac-12 on Monday. He racked up 109 tackles this season, the most for the Cougs since James Darling’s 136 in 1996. His career total is 379, the fourth-most in school history.

PULLMAN – For years and years, they’ve worked for this out on the Palouse. And while there remains more to do in 2013, with an Apple Cup and bowl win still potentially in the cards, this group of Cougar seniors will forever be remembered -- for their perseverance, for helping to turn around the program, for getting that sixth win. Here’s post game video of three Cougar seniors – plus Mike Leach.

Bucannon shines bright on big stage for Cougars

Washington State safety Deone Bucannon (20) looks into the crowd as he enters Martin Stadium before the start of an NCAA college football game against Idaho on Saturday, Sept. 21, 2013, in Pullman, Wash. (AP Photo/Dean Hare)

As he has done throughout his career with the Washington State football team, Deone Bucannon again came up big on a big stage for the Cougars on Saturday.

It just didn’t add up to victory – or even a close defeat.

The Vanden High graduate had a game-high nine tackles and recorded his third interception of the year as WSU (3-2) fell 55-17 to No. 5 Stanford in the annual Seattle Game at CenturyLink Field, home of the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks.

The senior strong safety leads the Pac-12 with 44 total and 26 solo tackles and is tied for second with an average of 8.8 tackles per game.

DEONE BUCANNON

NOTABLE NOTES

Washington State scored on its opening drive for the first time since Halliday's 32-yard pass to Marks against Colorado last season.

Washington State's 120 rushing yards were the most it amassed since 2011 at Oregon, when it finished with 125.

Halliday threw for 344 yards, his sixth 300-yard game, tying him for third all-time with Jason Gesser and Timm Rosenbach.

Halliday's 65 pass attempts were the second-most in school single-game history. Drew Bledsoe caught 66 against Montana in 1992.

Andrew Furney's 44-yard field goal was the 32nd of his career, moving him into a tie for fourth place on the schook's career list with Rian Lindell.

Rickey Galvin matched a career high with five catches.

Deone Bucannon added 14 tackles for a career total of 284, including 202 solo, good for the sixth-most all time.

Oklahoma City — Washington State University senior safety Deone Bucannon has been named to the Jim Thorpe Award 2013 watch list, the Oklahoma Sports Hall of Fame and Jim Thorpe Association announced Friday.

Bucannon is one of 48 players included on the watch list for the award that honors the nation’s best defensive back. The Fairfield, Calif. native was an All-Pac-12 second team selection last season after making a team-high 106 tackles, tied for second-most in the Pac-12 and was the highest total by any non-linebacker. Bucannon also made a team-best four interceptions including a two-interception performance against Oregon. Bucannon posted seven double-digit tackle performances including a 17-tackle game at Arizona State.

Earlier this summer, Bucannon was named to the Preseason All-Pac-12 Second Team by both Athlon Sports and Phil Steel Magazine and was also named to the Preseason All-America Fourth Team by Athlon Sports.

The Jim Thorpe Awardwatch list is chosen by a screening committee who compile a list of 30-50 players. The list is not final, and players who have outstanding seasons are added as the season progresses. The Thorpe Award Winner is selected from three finalists and will be announced at The Home Depot College Football Awards on Thursday, December 12, 2013 on ESPN.

PULLMAN, Wash. - Washington State University senior safety Deone Bucannon was named to the Preseason All-America Fourth Team by Athlon Sports Tuesday.

Bucannon was an All-Pac-12 second team selection last season after making a team-high 106 tackles, tied for second-most in the Pac-12 and was the highest total by any non-linebacker. Bucannon also made a team-best four interceptions including a two-interception performance against Oregon. The Fairfield, Calif. native posted seven double-digit tackle performances including a 17-tackle game at Arizona State.

Earlier this summer, Bucannon was named to the Preseason All-Pac-12 Second Team by both Athlon Sports and Phil Steel Magazine.

Bucannon was a second team All-Pac-12 selection last season after making a team-high 106 tackles, tied for second-most in the Pac-12 and was the highest total by any non-linebacker. Bucannon also made a team-best four interceptions including a two-interception performance against Oregon. The Fairfield, Calif. native posted seven double-digit tackle performances including a 17-tackle game at Arizona State.

Furney, also a second team All-Pac-12 selection along with Phil Steele Midseason second team All-American honors last season, went 14-for-20 on field goal attempts, tied for second in the conference, was a perfect 7-for-7 on attempts inside 30 yards and 6-of-10 on kicks outside of 40 yards including a conference-best 60-yarder against Eastern Washington.

Fullington, a two-time All-Pac-12 selection, started all 12 games last season, the final 10 coming at left guard. Marks was second on the team with 49 catches for 560 yards and two touchdowns during his freshman campaign while Monroe garnered All-Pac-12 honorable mention after finishing second on the team with 80 tackles including 8.5 for loss and three sacks. Brooks averaged a career-best 10.6 yards-per-punt return last year while Williams tallied 34 receptions for 536 yards and three touchdowns including a pair of 100-yard games in his first season on the field for the Cougars.

With a team-leading 11 tackles in WSU's dramatic Apple Cup victory on Friday, Cougar junior safety Deone Bucannon upped his season total to 106 and claimed his second team tackling crown in three seasons. Linebacker Darryl Monroe was second with 80 total tackles for the year. Bucannon also took the top spot as a true freshman in 2010. Linebacker Alex Hoffman-Ellis just edged Bucannon for No. 1 last season.

With four interceptions on the year, Bucannon also took the Cougars' air theft crown. Linebacker Cyrus Coen was second with 3 INTs.

Bucannon, Furney named to Pac-12 second teamby the staff of Cougfan.com, November 26, 2012 at 11:49 pm ET

Bucannon logged a team-high 106 tackles, tied for second-most in the Pac-12 and the highest total by any non-linebacker. Furney was 14-for-20 on field goal attempts, tied for second in the conference, including a Pac-12 best 60-yarder against Eastern Washington. Furney went 25-of-26 on PATs and went 3-for-3 in the Apple Cup victory.

Long received his fourth all-conference accolade. Long, who played in 11 games this season, was tied for fifth in the conference with 9.5 sacks.

PULLMAN -- Washington State’s impressive first-half performance against Oregon seems to have put some moxie in the young team’s attitude. The Cougs may be the underdogs this week at Oregon State, but you wouldn’t have guessed it based the body language and general vibe that Connor Halliday and Deone Bucannon brought to Monday’s media availability.

“We can compete with anyone in the nation,” Halliday said. “We’re good enough to put up points against anyone in the nation. When this team plays with confidence, we’re a darn good group.”

Bucannon was equally stoked. “A bunch of confidence,” he said about the Cougar D, which limited Oregon to 169 air yards. “We have the potential to play with anybody. We’re not into moral victories, but this was a huge step for us.”

He added, “We got out there with a chip on our shoulders. We understand we’re the underdogs, but we go out there playing everyone the same. We’re going to play Pullman High School the same we play LSU. We’re gonna play them as hard as we possibly can.”

Maybe that first 30 minutes against the Ducks was the breakthrough the Cougs and their fans have been waiting for. Maybe, like Highway 26 that leads to Pullman, the Cougs have covered the stubborn ground and are now turning right at Colfax and headed to that oasis in the sea of wheat. Have they finally reached the bend in the road? Is the corner going to be fully turned?

If it is, Leach knows exactly where he wants to end up.

“You got a team like Oregon that is several years in the making and a lot of things have gone their way that they’ve earned,” he said. “They’ve stacked up several recruiting classes and done a lot of good things to build what they have. That’s where we need to get to, that’s what we need to do. I think we’re headed that way, but it’s difficult to do overnight, just like it didn’t happen overnight for Oregon.”

Ironically, the Cougs take on Oregon State this week, a team that has seemingly skipped the long road back routine and performed an overfly straight back to respectability. Heading into 2012, many pundits pegged the Beavers to finish at the bottom of the Pac-12 North. Now they’re ranked No. 14 in the nation, having knocked off a heavily favored Wisconsin team, followed by impressive victories on the road against UCLA and Arizona.

College notebook: Bucannon comes up big in opener for Washington State

BYU's Scott Arellano gets taken down by Washington's Deone Bucannon during the second half of the NCAA college football game between the BYU Cougars and the Washington State Cougars at LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo, Utah on Thursday, Aug. 30, 2012. BYU went on to beat Washington State 30-6. (AP Photo/Spenser Heaps, Daily Herald)

The Mike Leach era at Washington State didn’t quite start with a bang, but Deone Bucannon made plenty of noise in the Cougars’ season-opening 30-6 loss to Brigham Young.

The Vanden High graduate and two-time Solano County Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year amassed 12 tackles, seven of them solo, both team highs, from his strong safety position. He also broke up a pass.

PULLMAN – Few people would call the Cougars a “great” team one game into the 2012 season. But safety Deone Bucannon did just that on Monday. Meanwhile, based on what Mike Leach had to say, don’t expect any further displays of demonstrable frustration out on the field -- like what the ESPN cameras captured with Marquess Wilson at the end of the BYU game.

Morale was high and the demeanor was calm on Monday, a few days removed from Thursday’s disappointing loss to BYU.

“We’re a great team, we know we’re a great team,” Deone Bucannon said. “The performance we put on (at BYU) isn’t going to translate into any of the other games coming up.”

“If you guys expect us to sit around and mope all week, you’re wrong,” Jeff Tuel said. “Those times are over.”

During the BYU game, the Cougs drew Mike Leach’s ire for doing exactly that. A hot topic among CougFans since Thursday, I asked Leach about All-America candidateMarquess Wilson and how ESPN’s cameras showed him frustrated out on the field towards the end of the game.

“We spent more time putting on little frustration demonstrations than we did playing football -- that's a problem,” Leach said. “I’m not having him pout, or anybody else.”

Leach said body language has been a huge point of emphasis in film session and meetings this week.

He also added that he’d have no problem sending someone to the locker room if they were going to mope around. He didn’t refer to Wilson specifically on that last point -- it’s clear the team as a whole will need to avoid similar expressions of attitude this week and come Saturday.

TUEL SAID HE needs to play better next week and beyond and what needs work is obvious.

“I need to get through my reads quicker,” Tuel said. “I need to put the ball in play, really.”

Leach also noted that Tuel does have the freedom to take off and run on any play but it's not an emphasis. He said he was impressed with how Tuel avoided pressure and made things happen on the run, but added that he has to find his check downs and make things happen.

When asked if the new offense has led to some growing pains, Tuel somewhat agreed but said that it was no excuse for any shortcomings in his play on Thursday. As to the body language issue, he said that as a team captain, senior and veteran quarterback, it’s his job to help maintain team mettle.

“We’re a young team,” Tuel said. “It’s easy if you get in a hole just to kinda get upset and get your body language down and throw in the towel. We’re 0-1. It’s not the end of the world. It’s not catastrophic. We’ll come back and be ready this week.”

BUCK LINEBACKERTravis Long, the senior leader of the defense, said on Monday that the Cougar D has made strides and is beginning to gel.

“I thought we played well -- certain plays shot us in the foot, but we all did our jobs for a majority of the time.”

Long added that the new 3-4 system has contributed to his early success. The Spokane native tallied two sacks against BYU.

BUCANNON SAID THE Cougs need to fly around and let loose come Saturday against Eastern. And whether they’re an FCS team or not, they’re still a college football team that resides in the Cougars’ home state.

“I definitely see it as a rivalry,” Bucannon said. “It’s not as big as UW or anything, but they’re only an hour away and that’s how it’s gonna be on the field.”

Tuel echoed Bucannon’s sentiment, adding that Eastern’s spirited play on Saturday in the 20-3 win over Idaho is what WSU should strive for.

“This is how we want to play, this is how we should have played Thursday,” said Tuel in regards to EWU. “They just fly around, really high energy, with passion. They’re flying around the ball, having a good time.”

BUCANNON CAPPED OFF the afternoon by noting that with Leach now at the helm, the influx of support and attention nationwide is a new feeling for the Cougs, something they’re not yet used to yet.

“It’s new for us,” Bucannon said. “For everyone to have so much faith in us, even the coaching staff. To have some much poise and to by relying on us and confident in us, I believe we have to be more confident in ourselves.”

The Cougs next hit the practice field on Tuesday afternoon. Washington State will take on the Eastern Washington Eagles this Saturday at noon in Martin Stadium in a game being televised by the Pac-12 Network.

NOTABLE NOTES:

An early copy of this week’s depth chart was handed out and Xavier Cooper is no longer listed as the starting right tackle on the d-line. Steven Hoffart, who got the start there against BYU, is now listed as the No. 1. Cooper has been out injured since early in fall camp but was dressed and warmed up on Thursday, but did not play.

Adam Coerper is no longer listed as the No. 1 d-line left tackle -- Matthew Bock is now slotted there. Bock started against BYU and Coerper played, though neither was credited with any stats by the official scorekeeper.

On offense, the left guard position continues to be noted as Wade Jacobson ORMatt Goetz. At right tackle, Dan Spitz continues to be listed as the starter. (Jacobson spent all of Sunday’s practice running at the No. 1 right tackle position while Spitz was the No. 1 right guard.

Leach displayed his usual calm demeanor throughout the 20-minute media session and also per usual, had a quip or two that broke up the crowd. “This is the hottest coffee in the whole wide world,” Leach proclaimed at one point. (You had to be there.)

2008 Grad Kenonte Howard WR

2010 Grad Chris Broadnax WR

2010 Grad Randey Peterson LB/DB

Chris Broadnax (Vanden) caught a 16-yard touchdown pass and had two receptions for 18 yards as Sacramento State (1-3) got its first win by walloping Weber State 31-3.

NOTE: This is the sixth installment of our weekly series projecting the Top 10 players at each position for the 2013 Big Sky Conference football season.

Certainly, as the Oregon Ducks-style spread option offense continues to mark the trends in college football, the classic tight end -- the slower, big-bodied, possession-and-blocking type -- isn't utilized like he once was. Instead, a faster, hybrid version has taken root in many programs, and the Big Sky Conference boasts its share also.

The players on my list of the top tight ends in the league for the upcoming season haven't put up huge statistics, they haven't dominated games and they haven't made anybody forget about Shannon Sharpe or Tony Gonzalez. But there's still plenty of potential for big things. Have a read:

TOP 10 TIGHT ENDS FOR 2013

1. TAYLOR SLOAT, SR., UC DAVIS2012: 30 rec, 428 yds, 14.3 avg, 2 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: Sloat ranked second at UC Davis last season in catches and receiving yards, and will be a major threat this year too. The Aggies haven't aired it out too much in recent years -- they were a fairly balanced run/pass outfit under former coach Bob Biggs -- but looked to Sloat when they did. New coach Ron Gould is a running game type guy, too, having coordinated the ground attack at Cal. Sloat's touchdown catch late in the game against Sacramento State gave UC Davis the winning points, and he had seven catches for 108 yards in that game. Expect more of that in 2013.

2. R.J. RICKERT, JR., NORTHERN ARIZONA2012: 27 rec, 272 yds, 10.1 avg, 3 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: The media liked Rickert enough to make him its tight end selection on the preseason All-Big Sky Conference team, and why not? Rickert made at least one catch in every game he played last season, and enters 2013 off a stellar finale against Cal Poly a year ago when he made eight grabs for 66 yards. Rickert is a reliable pass catcher, but he's also a solid blocker for the league's top running back (Zach Bauman). As the Lumberjacks get ready to break in a new quarterback to replace Cary Grossart, Rickert will be an even bigger asset this season.

3. ZACK GEHRING, SR., EASTERN WASHINGTON2012: 7 rec, 75 yds, 10.7 yds, 1 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: For as much as the Eagles sling the ball around the field -- Eastern Washington had 307 completions last year, sixth-most in the FCS -- Gehring could have had more touches. But with receivers Brandon Kaufman, Nicolas Edwards and Greg Herd now gone, Gehring might fit more in the pass-game picture this year. Gehring looks to become an important safety valve for multi-dimensional quarterback Vernon Adams, who played great last season as a redshirt freshman. Gehring is no stranger to experience, having started in 21 career games.

4. CLAY PIERSON, SR., MONTANA2012: 2 rec, 34 yds, 17.0 avg, 1 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: Traditional use of the tight end will again be a big part of the Grizzlies' offense this year as coordinators Kefense Hynson and Scott Gragg utilize a shorter passing game and conventional, pro-style sets. And Pierson figures to be a big winner in this scenario. Pierson switched over to tight end last year after spending time at different spots on defense, and the coaches like what he brings. With Greg Hardy graduated and with Oregon transfer Curtis White no longer on the roster, Pierson, a Twin Bridges product, should get many opportunities to catch the ball this year.

5. TYLER WRIGHT, SO., IDAHO STATE2012: 4 rec, 37 yds, 9.2 avg, 0 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: Last year, senior Josh Hill led all Big Sky tight ends with 70 catches. Hill's eligibility is up (so is record-breaking WR Rodrick Rumble's), and Wright looks like a good candidate to become a bigger weapon in the Bengals' throw-the-ball-on-every-snap offense. Too high of expectations? Maybe. But somebody's going to fill that role. And it might as well be Wright, who made a handful of plays last year. Wright is only a sophomore, but he's the best option the Bengals have on their roster right now. Still, he's got work to do to produce like Hill did. He'll give it a shot in 2013.

6. TIAI SALANOA, JR., MONTANA STATE2012: 11 rec, 89 yds, 8.1 avg, 1 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: When healthy, Salanoa is a pretty important guy in the Bobcats' passing game. But that's the only problem -- the caveat, "When healthy, ... ." If Salanoa can stay on the field, quarterback DeNarius McGhee will find him. Salanoa is a big target and is really athletic. He can run, and he possesses good hands. With Salanoa injured the last half of 2012, Lee Perkins became a much bigger part of the offense late in the season in 2012 and into the playoffs. But the thinking here is that Salanoa can stay healthy. If so, he'll produce, especially in the red zone.

7. AUSTIN WILBERS, SR., NORTHERN COLORADO2012: 13 rec, 101 yds, 7.8 avg, 0 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: The most pleasant surprise of the 2012 season in the Big Sky might have been Northern Colorado. The Bears went 5-6 and closed the year on a three-game winning streak. The offense was more efficient. Among QB Seth Lobato's targets this season will again be Wilbers, who quietly went about his business to help UNC improve. If nothing else, he was consistent. He made three catches in a game three different times. Wilbers prepped at a top high school (Cherry Creek in Denver's Greenwood Village) so he knows how to play the game the right way.

8. CHRIS BROADNAX, JR., SACRAMENTO STATE2012: 12 rec, 150 yds, 12.5 avg, 1 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: Broadnax's initiation as a full-time tight end last year produced his biggest moment -- a 35-yard touchdown catch that helped the Hornets upset Pac-12 Colorado last September. Broadnax, who finished with five catches in that game, kept it up from there. And if he hadn't missed four straight games late in the year due to injury, his numbers would have been better. Broadnax and D.J. Maciel are Sac State's top tight ends. QB Garrett Safron hopes to prove his success last year was no fluke, and Broadnax will be included again among his options.

9. HAYDEN PLINKE, SO., PORTLAND STATE2012 (at Boise State): 2 rec, 20 yds, 10.0 avg, 0 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: Anyone who's played in Boise State's offense, if even sparingly, is a talent. Plinke spent a year at BSU, but has since transferred to Portland State, where coach Nigel Burton says he and his coaching staff can utilize Plinke's athleticism right away, almost in the mold of former Vikings star and current Denver Bronco Julius Thomas. Burton and Co. recruited Plinke out of high school, so they know what he has to offer. At 6-foot-4 and nearly 260 pounds, Plinke might have the biggest upside of any tight end in the Big Sky.

10. DREW EMANUEL, SR., NORTHERN ARIZONA2012: 8 rec, 140 yds, 17.5 avg, 1 TD. THE BUZZ FOR 2013: This will be Emanuel's fourth year playing under coach Jerome Souers, and last season he earned an all-conference nod. Emanuel has the kind of size (6-4, 252 pounds) that makes him a very big and very important target in the Lumberjacks' short passing game. But he's also a downfield threat, having averaged 17.5 yards per catch a year ago. And that's great for a tight end. Blocking is also a key (as noted above with NAU teammate Rickert) in NAU's vaunted, straight-ahead running game spearheaded by Zach Bauman.

*** NATIONAL NO. 1: A.C. LEONARD, JR., TENNESSEE STATE. Physically, Leonard is a freak. A major talent who dropped down to the FCS from the University of Florida prior to the 2012 season, Leonard (standing 6-4 and weighing nearly 250 pounds) made 51 catches for 733 yards and 6 TDs for the Tigers last year. He was named to three All-America teams in 2012, and he should be in line for a number of awards and honors again as a junior.

Sacramento State upsets Colorado 30-28 on late FG

Not only did the program earn a $460,000 paycheck, but the Hornets of the Big Sky Conference also pulled off an upset at a Pac-12 stadium for the second straight season and walk-on kicker Edgar Castaneda earned an education.

Castaneda nailed a 31-yard field goal as time expired in the Hornets’ 30-28 stunner over Colorado. His first game-winner at any level earned the transfer from City College of San Francisco not only a hug from his coach, but also a scholarship.

Marshall Sperbeck made the announcement during his postgame speech to the Hornets (1-1), who upset Oregon State 29-28 in overtime in last year’s opener.

Sacramento State tight end and Vanden High graduate Chris Broadnax finished the game with five catches for 92 yards, including a 35-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter after collecting just three receptions for 29 yards in his previous 12 games. Ex-Vacaville star Markell Williams had one solo tackle in the victory.

The Buffaloes (0-2) were kicking themselves after falling to 1-2 against FCS-level opponents. They also lost to Montana State at home in 2006.

“I did not come into this game feeling like we were going to dominate. I came into this game thinking it was going to be a football game that we were going to have to fight and win,” Embree said. “So that’s how I coached all week and how they were talked to. No one thought we were just going to come in and win.”

So, the Buffaloes didn’t expect a cakewalk, but they didn’t foresee losing to a walk-on, either.

Trailing 28-27, the Hornets got the ball at their own 15 with 2:26 left and marched 77 yards behind the arm of sophomore quarterback Garrett Safron, who threw for a career-best 312 yards.

“I gathered around the offense and told them, ‘It’s go time. We’ve got to win it right here, right now,’” Safron said. “That’s what we did.”

He completed four passes totaling 53 yards on the game-winning drive and his receivers drew pass interference penalties on two other throws, accounting for another 15 yards, as the Hornets reached the Colorado 17.

From there, they ran three times before calling timeout with 1 second left for Castaneda, who had hit from 28 and 31 yards earlier.

“I was relaxed; it was just another kick,” Castaneda said. “I was calm.”

Safron sure wasn’t.

“I was getting hyped, holding everyone’s hand on the sideline,” he said. “It was the greatest feeling.”

Morris Norrise caught seven passes for 104 yards for Sacramento State, which piled up 466 yards of offense against a team that was missing two starters and lost star linebacker Doug Rippy (left knee) in the first half.

Norrise’s biggest contribution, though, was knocking away a pass that was about to get picked off by Parker Orms on the game-winning drive.

In his first start, Colorado fullback Christian Powell ran for 147 yards and tied a school freshman record with three touchdowns. He broke free for a 64-yard score on his second carry and added a pair of 1-yard scores.

He was stuffed for a 3-yard loss on his final carry, however, while the Buffs were trying to run out the clock.

Powell’s third TD put the Buffs ahead 28-24 in the third quarter, and Castaneda’s 31-yarder pulled the Hornets to 28-27 with 12 minutes left. The teams exchanged punts on the next five possessions before the Hornets got one last chance and went 77 yards in nine plays.

“This is not a game they were supposed to win,” Buffaloes defensive end Chidera Uzo-Diribe said. “And for them to go out there and do what they did to us today is embarrassing.”

Embree promised changes, and one could come at quarterback, where Webb was 12 of 24 for 160 yards. Backup Connor Wood threw a 28-yard screen pass on his only snap.

“Everything will be re-evaluated,” Embree promised. “Everything will, all positions.”

CORVALLIS, Ore. —Brandyn Reed followed his 6-yard touchdown with a leaping two-point conversion grab to give Sacramento State a 29-28 overtime victory at Oregon State on Saturday in front of a stunned crowd of 41,581 at Reser Stadium.

In the overtime session, after OSU took the lead with a 17-yard run from Malcolm Agnew, the Hornets responded with a 6-play drive which ended when quarterback Jeff Fleming hit Reed in the center of the end zone to pull the Hornets within one at 28-27. Sacramento State initially lined up for the PAT but then motioned into a two-point formation forcing Oregon State to call a timeout. After the break, the Hornets sent out the offense and Fleming lobbed the ball to the right side of the end zone where Reed went over the top of the defender to make the winning grab.

The Hornet victory was the first against a Football Bowl Subdivision team in 11 tries and snapped a streak of 49-straight losses by Big Sky Conference schools against FBS foes dating back to 2006. In addition, the win snapped a 29-game losing streak by Big Sky teams against Pac-12 teams. The last Big Sky win against the Pac-12 came on Sept. 7, 1996 when Montana beat Oregon State 35-14.

Following a scoreless first quarter, Oregon State took its first lead of the game with a 29-yard field goal from Trevor Romaine.

From that point, the Hornets scored the next 14 points. Fleming gave the team the lead with a 19-yard pass to Chase Deadder with 9:23 left in the half. The two connected again for a 4-yard TD to put the Hornets up 14-3 at the break.

OSU trimmed its deficit with a 45-yard field goal from Romaine early in the second half but was immediately answered by a 39-yard pass from receiver Morris Norrise to Reed. Norrise took a lateral pass from Fleming, then threw over the top of the defense to a wide-open Reed on the right sideline.

The Beavers bounced back in the fourth quarter with a heavy emphasis on the running game. Agnew, a true freshman from Missouri, rushed for 166 yards in the third and fourth quarters including touchdowns of 1 and 4 yards.

Both teams had a chance to take the lead in the final minutes but fell short. Hornet kicker Jason Diniz's 28-yard field goal was blocked with 2:35 left in regulation. The Beavers then drove inside the Hornet 5 but Romaine's 27-yarder hit the right upright forcing overtime.

Individually, Fleming completed 22-of-35 passes for 257 yards and three touchdowns. He also rushed for a team-high 39 yards. Norrise, Reed and Deadder each had a team-high six receptions and finished with 89, 85 and 61 yards, respectively.

Agnew rushed for 223 yards and had three TDs to lead OSU. Ryan Katz started the game at quarterback for the Beavers and threw for 87 yards before being replaced at the half by Sean Mannion who threw for 143 yards.

Defensively, Todd Davis led all players with 12 tackles. Safeties Ryan McMahon and Joe Larche were also active with 10 and seven stops, respectively. Larche also returned a fumble 58 yards and cornerback Osagie Odiase stopped Oregon State's first drive with a diving interception.

Sacramento State stays on the road to take on Southern Utah Saturday, Sept. 10, at noon (PDT).

2010 Grad Damon Treat RB

In St. Cloud State’s 31-6 win over Augustanta College, Damon Treat (Vanden) caught five passes for 46 yards for the unbeaten Huskies (4-0).

Box Score St. Cloud, Minn. – St. Cloud State University junior running back Michael Walker (Walworth, Wis.) caught the game winning pass as time ran out to give the Huskies a 51-49 upset win over #2-ranked University of Minnesota Duluth Saturday evening in a Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) match-up at Husky Stadium.

St. Cloud State improved to 3-2 overall and 1-0 in the NSIC North. The Bulldogs suffered their first loss of the season and dropped to 4-1 overall and 0-1 in the NSIC North.

Junior quarterback Phillip Klaphake (Princeton) threw for a school record 466 passing yards, tied a single game record for touchdown passes with five, the most important an eight yard strike to Walker, and rushed for another touchdown.

He broke the old passing mark of 377 yards set by Jon Quesnel on Oct. 14, 2006 against Augustana College. He is the fourth Husky to throw five touchdown passes in a game and the first since Dan Kaczor threw five in 2004 against Western Washington.

Klaphake's touchdown passes were to five different players as the Huskies rolled up 642 yards of total offense, third most in school history.Walker scored two touchdowns and for the third time this season Walker rushed for over 100 yards. He finished the game with 12 carries for 107 yards and one touchdown and caught that game-winning pass for his only reception of the game.

“We tried to run the ball but it came down to having to throw it,” said St. Cloud State head coach Scott Underwood. “We found some holes and our offensive line executed very well and our receivers made some big plays.”

Junior receiver Chad Peterson (Winona) had a personal high seven receptions for 109 yards and one touchdowns. Junior receivers Eli Shoemaker (Graham, Wash.), Damon Treat (Fairfield, Calif.) and Renard Robinson (Bloomington) all had five catches each and Shoemaker and Robinson pulled in a touchdown pass.

Minnesota Duluth scored on their first two possessions of the game to take a 14-0 lead. A Taylor Berger(Ramsey) 23-yard touchdown reception and a 23-yard Tyler Aldridge (Woodbury) field goal with 5:42 left in the first half cut the UMD lead to 14-10. On the ensuing kick-off, UMD's Justin Fawlkes returned it 80-yards for a touchdown. A Chris Blake interception gave the Bulldogs the ball with under two minutes to go in the first half. Four plays later UMD quarterback Chase Vogler scored on a one yard run to give UMD a 28-10 lead at the half.

St. Cloud State outscored UMD 20-7 in the third quarter on a Klaphake run, a 36-yard pass to Shoemaker and a 38-yard Walker touchdown run and the Huskies trailed 35-30 going into the fourth quarter.

Vogler scored on an 11-yard run early in the fourth but the Huskies answered with two touchdown passes to Robinson and Peterson. A two-point conversion gave the Huskies their first lead of the game, 45-42 with 2:09 left.

Three plays later, Vogler scored on a 35-yard run with 1:16 on the clock. The Huskies took over on their own 25-yard line following the kick-off.Klaphake completed six of eight pass attempts in the final drive. He gained five yards on a third and one play to put the Huskies on the UMD 33. Back to back completions to Peterson put the Huskies on the UMD eight yard line. With :03 seconds left, SCSU called a time out and scored on the final play of the game.

Minnesota Duluth collected 367 yards of total offense and returned eight kickoffs for 205 yards and one touchdown. Vogler finished the game 11 of 25 passing for 164 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 120 yards and four touchdowns. Cameron Harper had a game high 11 tackles and the Bulldogs tallied four quarterback sacks and seven tackles for loss.

Junior defensive backs Jack Moro (Brookfield, Wis.) and sophomore back Kyle Risinger (Minnetonka) led the Husky defense with six tackles each. Risinger collected his first interception of the season.

St. Cloud State’s season got off to a murky start with a 32-19 loss to Sioux Falls during which Damon Treat (Vanden) had a 3-yard run, caught three passes for 20 yards and returned a kickoff for 50 yards.

California, Penn. -- Sophomore quarterback Phillip Klaphake (Princeton, Minn.) rushed for two touchdowns and threw for a third to lead the 13th-ranked St. Cloud State Huskies to a 26-3 season opening victory over 12th-ranked California University of Pennsylvania Thursday night at Adamson Stadium on the Cal U campus.

St. Cloud State (1-0) was impressive in the 2011 season debut with a stingy defense and an offense that produced 406 yards in an evenly balanced effort.

The Husky defense held the Vulcans to 206 yards of offense and only 56 rushing yards. St. Cloud State combined for three quarterback sacks and seven tackles for loss.

Junior linebacker Brad Wignes (Marseilles, Ill.) had a team high six tackles and sophomore linebacker Todd Bestgen (Rochester, Minn.) had a career high two quarterback sacks.

Klaphake finished the game 20 of 26 passing for 201 yards and one touchdown. He carried the ball 14 times for 60 yards and two touchdowns.

Junior running back Brandon Geiss (Shoreview, Ill.), in his first game back since suffering a season ending injury in the 2010 season opener, rushed 11 times for 69 yards.

Sophomore wide receiver Damon Treat (Fairfield, Calif.) led the team with five catches for 56 yards and one touchdown.

It is the first season opening win for the Huskies under head coach Scott Underwood who begins his fourth season at the helm in 2011.

The Huskies gained the advantage early as sophomore Eli Shoemaker (Graham, Wash.) forced and recovered the fumble on the opening kick-off. Three minutes later Klaphake capped a six play, 30-yard drive with a three-yard touchdown run.

St. Cloud State carried a 13-0 lead into halftime as Klaphake found Treat in the end zone on a 14-yard pass play at the 5:10 mark of the second quarter. Klaphake completed seven of seven pass attempts in the drive.

A 37-yard field goal by junior Tyler Aldridge (Woodbury, Minn.) put the Huskies ahead 16-0 with 10:08 left in the third quarter.

Cal U’s only look at end zone came in the third quarter on a 30-yard Cody Nuzzo field goal.

Klaphake sealed the win with a three-yard the completed a nine play, 65-yard drive with 4:31 left in the game.

St. Cloud State will host Concordia University, St. Paul in the season opener and Hall of Fame Game next Saturday, Sept. 10 at 6:00 p.m. at Husky Stadium.

HUSKY FOOTBALL: (VIDEO INCLUDED) HUSKIES OFF TO 2-0 START

Saturday, September 10, 2011

Tyler Aldridge

St. Cloud, Minn. – The 10th-ranked St. Cloud State football team is off to a 2-0 start following a 41-13 home opening win over Concordia University, St. Paul in Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC) action Saturday night in St. Cloud.

It is the first 2-0 start for the Huskies since the 2007 season. The win also marked the Huskies 11th straight home win dating back to the 2009 season. Concordia’s eight game road win streak came to an end tonight.

St. Cloud State is 2-0 overall and Concordia University dropped to 1-1. The Huskies travel to Winona State University next Saturday for a 6:00 p.m. kick-off.

The St. Cloud State defense intercepted six passes and sophomore quarterback Phillip Klaphake (Princeton, Minn.) passed for two touchdowns and ran for a third to lead the Huskies. Klaphake finished the game 20 of 25 passing for 250 yards and rushed for another 12.

The six interceptions were the most for the Huskies since Oct. 23, 2010 when SCSU’s Tyler Niedfeldt intercepted four passes. Junior defensive back Marvin Matthews (Roseville, Minn.) and senior Tony Kubes (New Prague, Minn.) each had two interceptions for the Huskies. Senior Joe Everson (Lakeville, Minn.) collected his ninth career INT and sophomore Miky Woods (Brooklyn Park, Minn.) had his first intercollegiate pick.

Seven players rushed the ball and 11 different players had pass receptions for the Huskies. Senior running back Dante Steward (Milwaukee, Wis.) led the Huskies on the ground with 36 yards rushing. Sophomore Michael Walker (Walworth, Wis.), junior Brandon Geiss (Shorewood, Ill.) and Klaphake each rushed for a touchdown.

Junior Tyler Allery (Lakeville, Minn.) and sophomore Damon Treat (Fairfield, Calif.) each had four receptions for the Huskies. Allery had 70 receiving yards and Treat had 43 yards and one touchdown. Sophomore tight end Corey Henne (Brookfield, Wis.) had touchdown reception of 19 yards.

Junior kicker Tyler Aldridge kicked field goals of 35 and 46-yards, a career long

The Husky defense accounted for three quarterback sacks and eight tackles for loss. Kubes led the defensive unit with nine total tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss. Junior Brad Wignes (Marseilles, Ill.) added six tackles.

St. Cloud State gained 379 yards of total offense to the Golden Bears 344.

Concordia University starting quarterback James Peterson was injured early in the second quarter. Third string quarterback Jared Russo took over and completed 17 of 27 passes for 184 yards and two touchdowns. Sam Campbell rushed for 48 yards.